Saturday, February 23, 2008

We toe the line 22 hours from now.

Everyone asks how long it's going to take? It's funny, because I have no idea. In my mind it's not a race, but an event with a focus on having fun and finishing. That said though, in reality it is a race and once out on the trail my focus will be on maintaining a solid pace and moving along as quickly as I feel is safe. Just how that converts to a total time though I really have no idea. I'm prepared to be out there for up to 11 or 12 days. Anything faster than that will be a success in my mind. I know that if things go well I can do it much faster than that but there are so many things beyond my control that can cause it to not go well. This is of course what makes this race so exciting, scary, and, as the veterans say, habit forming.

One thing I do know is that if I reach McGrath I'll have gained more knowledge about this event then I was able to in 6 months of training and preparation. Will this make me even more hungry to line up again a year from now? Well, that's looking a little too far ahead at this point. First I just need to figure out how to get some sleep tonight and then eat as much food as humanly possible tomorrow morning.

13 comments:

vw Dave
said...

Geoff~ Thanks for the last minute posting. Hope you're able to sleep tonight with all the excitement going on. I'm not sure I could!

Regarding the race, remember first and foremost that you've trained hard and it has paid off. You've accomplished most everything you've hoped for. You ARE ready man. Let that fact alone give you solace. Ease back when you think you should, and press forward when you're able. Stay tuned to your inner voice.

Lastly, take this experience and hold onto it as long as possible. Because in a week, or so, this chapter in your life becomes past tense. Therefore, make each moment count, then take a deep breath and let time stand still. Let that expansive Alaskan landscape trickle deep into your soul and fuze with that glorious sunshine.

Geoff, I wish I could have sent this to you before you started. A quote from our 1994 Central Square XC Tee shirts originated by you and very appropriate for the your current challenge..."Time and Distance can be measured...all else is in the mind" G Roes 1994 WOW! This stuff was in your head way back then...hope you finish safe and fast...you should be proud of your accomplishments. God's Speed my man!

You Rock! Hope your ankle is ok...sorry to hear you had to scratch, I bet that was a TOUGH decision. I can't wait to hear about it and see some pictures/video. It was beautiful out there wasn't it?! Your my hero! :-)

Hey Geoff,Tough one for sure. I hope the mental weight isnt too bad that you can walk away from this. You made the right decision, no race is worth permenant injury. Next year will be here before you know it, if you're still in anchorage and need anything dont hesitate to give me a shout3016678